Narcissus 'Carlton' (2)
ABOUT
Narcissus 'Carlton', more commonly known as the Carlton daffodil, is a visually striking plant known for its distinctive springtime blooms. The flowers are characterized by their bright yellow color and classic daffodil shape, which includes a central trumpet-like corona surrounded by a ring of six petals that are typically of the same vivid hue. The corona of the Carlton daffodil is slightly ruffled and has a gently flared mouth, adding an elegance to the bloom's overall appearance. The petals are slightly recurved, creating a graceful display that is reminiscent of a skirt in motion. This gives the flower a cheerful and inviting look, which is often associated with the onset of spring. The foliage of the Carlton daffodil is slender and strap-like, with a deep green color that provides a lovely contrast to the luminous yellow of the flowers. The leaves emerge from the base of the plant and are glossy, creating a neat and tidy appearance even when the flowers are not in bloom. Although we are avoiding the mention of size, it's important to note that the Carlton daffodil has a sturdy and erect form, with the blooms being well-presented above the foliage, enabling them to make a strong visual impact in the garden setting. These daffodils are commonly planted in groups, which can create a sea of yellow when in full bloom, providing a bright and joyful display in the landscape.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae
Synonyms
Carlton Daffodil, Large-Cupped Daffodil
Common names
Narcissus 'Carlton'
ToxicityTo humans
Daffodil, including the 'Carlton' cultivar, contains alkaloids such as lycorine, which can cause poisoning if ingested. The primary symptoms of daffodil poisoning include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and even cardiac arrhythmias or collapse. Contact with the sap could also cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. It is important to avoid consuming any part of the plant.
To pets
Daffodil is toxic to pets, such as dogs and cats. The bulbs, leaves, and flowers all contain toxic alkaloids, primarily lycorine which can lead to symptoms like vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and potentially, cardiac arrhythmias or respiratory depression if consumed in large amounts. In severe cases, ingesting daffodils can be fatal to pets. It is crucial to prevent pets from ingesting any part of the daffodil plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1 foot 6 inches [45 cm]
Spread
1 foot [30 cm]
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Western Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds bright yellow color and visual interest to gardens and landscapes.
- Ease of Care: Known to be low-maintenance, requiring minimal care once established.
- Drought Resistance: Once established, they can tolerate periods of dry weather.
- Naturalizing: Over time, they multiply and spread to fill out garden spaces naturally.
- Seasonal Interest: Blooms in early to mid-spring, offering seasonal beauty when many other plants are not flowering.
- Pest Resistance: Generally resistant to deer and other garden pests, reducing the need for chemical repellents.
- Cut Flower: Makes for long-lasting cut flowers that can brighten indoor spaces.
- Cold Hardy: Can survive cold winter temperatures, making them suitable for a range of climates.
- Pollinator-Friendly: Attracts bees and other pollinators, supporting local ecosystems.
- Easy to Combine: Complements other spring-blooming bulbs and perennials in mixed bed plantings.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Narcissus 'Carlton', commonly known as a daffodil, can be used as a pest deterrent, as the bulbs contain chemicals that are toxic to rodents and other garden pests.
- The strong scent of daffodils can be used in perfumery to create floral fragrances, although it's not as common as other floral scents.
- Daffodil bulbs can be used indirectly to fabricate a natural glue, by extracting the sticky mucilage contained within the bulb scales.
- Creative arts and crafts projects may utilize dried daffodil flowers for decorations on cards, picture frames, or homemade jewelry.
- The daffodil is a symbol of cancer charities around the world, and their likeness is used in various fundraising products and campaigns.
- During the Victorian era, daffodil motifs were popular in embroidery and fabric designs, pointing to a potential use in historical costume making or restoration.
- Daffodil petals can be used to make a natural yellow dye for textiles or art projects, as they can impart varying shades of yellow depending on the mordant used.
- The plant's sap has been used as a traditional adhesive for small-scale bookbinding or paper repair, due to its sticky properties.
- Photographers may use the vibrant daffodil fields as picturesque backdrops for portrait photography sessions, especially in the spring.
- Feng Shui practitioners sometimes use daffodils in home arrangements to bring positive energy and symbolize renewal or new beginnings.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Daffodil is often associated with good fortune and is used in Feng Shui to bring positive energy, especially when placed in the wealth corner (southeast) of a home or room, as it is believed to attract prosperity and success.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Daffodil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Rebirth and New Beginnings: The Narcissus, commonly known as Daffodil, typically blooms in early spring, symbolizing the end of winter and the arrival of a new life cycle.
- Unrequited Love: Inspired by the Greek myth of Narcissus, this flower is also a symbol of vanity and excessive self-love, leading to the notion of unreturned affection.
- Hope: Daffodils bring a message of hope and encouragement, often given to show support and create a positive outlook.
- Prosperity: In some cultures, Daffodils represent wealth and success, making them popular during celebrations like the Chinese New Year.
- Respect and Admiration: Giving Daffodils can express respect for someone’s hard work and achievement, often acknowledging high regard without romantic implications.
WaterFor Daffodil 'Carlton', water thoroughly to soak the soil around the bulbs after planting. During the growing season, if there is no rain, water your daffodils weekly with about one inch of water, which translates to roughly 0.6 gallons per square yard. It's important to not overwater, as daffodils are prone to rot in soggy soil. After blooming, you can reduce watering as the foliage begins to die back, signaling the end of the plant's growth cycle for the season.
LightDaffodil 'Carlton' prefers full sun to partial shade conditions. The best spot for these plants would be in an area where they receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. If planted under deciduous trees, they can receive early spring sunlight before the trees fully leaf out.
TemperatureDaffodil 'Carlton' tolerates a wide range of temperatures and is hardy in zones 3 to 8. The ideal temperature for active growth ranges between 50°F and 65°F. They can survive winter temperatures as low as 5°F and high summer temperatures as long as the bulbs are not in active growth.
PruningPruning is not typically required for Daffodil 'Carlton', as they are self-cleaning. However, after flowering, it is beneficial to remove only the spent flower heads, leaving the foliage intact. The leaves should be allowed to die back naturally, as this process feeds the bulbs for next year's growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDaffodil 'Carlton' thrives in well-draining soil with a pH level of 6.0 to 7.0. A good soil mix might include loam, sand, and compost for fertility and drainage.
RepottingDaffodils, including 'Carlton', typically do not need frequent repotting and can stay in the same spot for several years unless they become overcrowded.
Humidity & MistingDaffodil 'Carlton' is tolerant of a range of humidity levels and does not require specific humidity conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place 'Carlton' daffodils near a sunny window in well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant 'Carlton' daffodils in sunny spots with good drainage.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of the Carlton Daffodil begins with a dormant bulb, which requires a period of cold to stimulate spring growth. As temperatures rise, the bulb breaks dormancy, sending shoots upwards and roots downward. The plant enters a vegetative stage, developing long, slender leaves and a central stalk that will bear a flower. Following the vegetative growth, the flowering stage occurs, typically in early spring, showcasing the daffodil's hallmark yellow bloom. After flowering, the plant enters senescence; the foliage dies back, and the plant redirects energy to replenish the bulb for the next season. The life cycle completes as the bulb re-enters dormancy, waiting for the next cycle's cues to start the process again.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
Propogation: The most popular method of propagation for the daffodil 'Carlton' is by dividing its bulbs. Typically, the best time to do this is after the foliage has died back, usually in late summer or early fall. To propagate, carefully dig up the clump of bulbs and gently separate them, being sure to leave as many roots intact as possible. Each separated bulb, with its basal plate and roots, can be replanted immediately at a depth of about 6 inches (15 centimeters) to ensure proper root establishment before the cold sets in. Replanting at the proper depth also helps protect the bulbs from freezing temperatures and provides a basis for new growth in the following spring. This straightforward division method maintains the genetic integrity of the 'Carlton' daffodil and is an easy way for gardeners to increase their display of these cheerful spring blooms.
